Vatricania guentheri
A large, slow-growing perennial cactus, up to 2m high at maturity, with upright green stems to 10cm thick, branching from the base. Stems have up to 27 ribs, and areoles producing clusters of pale yellow spines. On mature plants, funnel-shaped white or pale yellow flowers are preceded by a profusion of fine red hairs growing from the flowering side of the plant
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Size
Ultimate height
1.5–2.5 metresTime to ultimate height
20–50 yearsUltimate spread
1–1.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Green | White Yellow | ||
| Autumn | Green | |||
| Winter | Green |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H1BBotanical details
- Family
- Cactaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- No
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Habit
- Columnar upright
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- Bolivia
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow under glass, or in patio containers and overwinter in a greenhouse, in a loam-based potting compost with added grit. Water moderately when in growth, allowing plants to dry out between waterings, and sparingly when dormant. Apply a balanced liquid fertiliser two or three times in the growing season. See houseplant cacti and succulent cultivation for more advice
Propagation
Propagate by seed, or by stem cuttings
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Houseplants
- Patio and container plants
- Low Maintenance
- Conservatory and greenhouse
Pruning
No pruning required
Pests
May be susceptible to mealybugs
Diseases
Generally disease-free
Get involved
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